The first year of The Salvation Army's National Advisory Board (NAB) can best be described as an education phase. Through a variety of presentations by Army personnel, board members learned about the Army's mission and ministries throughout the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

“The first year provided an excellent opportunity for learning,” says Commissioner William W. Francis, territorial commander. “The education phase has been mutual as we have grown in our appreciation of the wide range of gifts and skills represented by NAB members.”

A Memorandum of Understanding has also been developed to set a foundation for the relationship between the Army and the NAB. “The memorandum outlines the guiding principles for the contribution of the board and the responsibilities of the Army,” says Andrew Lennox, board chair.

The board offers counsel to the territorial commander and senior leadership in regards to significant aspects of the organization. The Army is then responsible to consider these recommendations and proposals, with the intention of implementation. The Army stands to benefit strongly as a result of the support and input of the NAB members.

The board is now moving into a more active phase, with three task teams already underway. The human resources group is led by Janice Wismer, chief human resources officer, McCain Foods Limited; government relations, by Suzanne Herbert, former deputy minister, Province of Ontario (Community and Social Services, Education, Northern Development and Mines); and legal services, by Stephen Bodley, business consultant and former head of mergers and acquisitions, North America, Direct Energy. More task teams will follow shortly.

“All NAB members have been active through personal advice and assistance,” says Commissioner Francis. “The enthusiastic and transparent support by the NAB sets a strong foundation for the future.”